In any dating scenario—online or in real life—making the first move is often the most challenging step. Taking the leap and starting a conversation with someone you're interested in inevitably comes with the risk of embarrassment, rejection, and awkward silence, but it's typically worth it for the possibility of igniting that first spark. If you've ever found yourself searching for the perfect way to begin a flirtatious discussion with someone, you're not alone. In fact, the popular dating app Hinge was so interested in this common conundrum that the team analyzed data from the app to figure out what makes the most promising opening line when it comes to dating.

"Hinge users gravitate toward prompts that encourage vulnerability and dive a bit deeper into greatest fears and aspirations," Hinge Director of Communication Jean-Marie McGrath tells Brides. According to her company's research, the best conversation starters prompt people to be open and honest from the beginning. It's this vulnerability that seems to lead to more meaningful conversations. Ready to step up your dating game? Consult this list of questions to ask when chatting or texting with someone new based on foolproof Hinge-approved prompts.

1. What's the next vacation you want to go on?

2. What makes you happy?

3. What are you looking for in a relationship?

4. What would your last meal be?

5. What is something you geek out on?

Try out one of these conversation starters next time you find yourself interested in someone new, and make a note to stay clear of hinting at a date, asking about family dynamics, or promoting yourself too early on. Data from Hinge shows that these are among the most common ways to stop a conversation in its tracks.